The 10 greatest views in Paris

Few skylines are as instantly recognisable as the rooftops of Paris, and last week it was announced that the zinc-clad beauties have been recognised by the French state as a ‘priceless cultural asset’, bringing them one step closer to Unesco World Heritage status. Lofty ambitions indeed. In case you fancy checking out the potential candidates for yourself, we’ve rounded up 10 of Paris’s most delectable rooftop spots – from world-famous attractions to offbeat bars – for your next trip across the Channel.

The Montparnasse tower viewing platform Credit: GETTY

1. Montparnasse tower

This 680-foot behemoth in the south of the city was built in the Seventies as part of an attempt to emulate the financial districts of New York and London. It proved so unpopular on its inception, that it is now forbidden to build any more of its like in the city centre. But while it may not be the French capital’s most beautiful building, its panoramic observation deck does offer a magnificent view of the Eiffel Tower and the city beyond. And the best bit? You don’t have to see the eyesore itself.

2. Le Perchoir, 11th arrondissement

You may recognise this one from Instagram. This chic rooftop bar – complete with outdoor deck seating and custom cocktails – has been a hangout for Paris’s in-crowd for several summers now. The outdoor space, located in the 11th arrondissement, offers a great close-up view of Paris’s romantic rooftops. Another branch, on top of the BHV department store in the buzzy Marais district, opened last year, and has its own rather lovely views of the Seine, Notre Dame and the city.

3. La Grande Arche in La Défense

This modern addition, located in Paris’s business district, may not be the city’s most famous arch, but it is certainly the tallest, measuring over 110 metres. The structure, which was built in 1989 to mark the bicentenary of the French Revolution, has reopened its rooftop to the public after seven years of renovation, and now offers a smart restaurant as well as exhibitions and cultural events. The view is worth the Metro ride out, and you’ll get a chance to see a different side of Paris too.

4. The Pompidou Centre

Paris’s distinctive national modern art museum celebrates its 40th anniversary this year with a string of blockbuster exhibitions, including the David Hockney retrospective, previously a huge hit at The Tate. While you’re visiting, make sure you head up to the sixth floor for an intimate encounter with the roofs of Paris. You may also visit the top-floor restaurant Le Georges, or skip straight to the roof with a “View of Paris” ticket.

5. The towers of Notre Dame

The view of central Paris from up among the gothic spires of Notre Dame is debatably the most special in the city, flanked as it is by the fantastical chimera made famous by Victor Hugo’s Notre Dame de Paris. The ascent involves waiting in line and some windy Gothic steps, but the charm is unparalleled.

Notre Dame Credit: GETTY

6. Terrass Bar, Hotel Terrass Montmartre

Following extensive renovation, this historic hotel, perched high on the hill in the heart of romantic Montmartre, now offers a rooftop bar with a 180-degree views of Paris. Go after sunset to catch an excellent view of the Eiffel Tower doing its sparkly magic, while sipping on one of the bar’s 16 tasty signature cocktails.

7. Tour St Jacques

This single tower, located amidst the hubbub of Rue de Rivoli, is the only surviving part of the 16th century Gothic church Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie, saved when it was dismantled and sold off by revolutionaries in 1797. After a climb up a winding 300-step Gothic staircase, you will be rewarded with rather lovely views of the Seine, Ile de la Cité and the rooftops of Paris. The tower is open from 10am to 5pm every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday in the summer months.

Inside Tour St Jacques Credit: GETTY

8. Nüba

Opened on the roof of cultural space La Cité du mode et du Design in 2013, this popular spot looks out across the banks of the Seine from the less tourist-trodden 13th arrondissement. The vibe is chilled with deck chairs, fairy lights and foosball tables, plus a packed roster of live music.

9. Sacré Coeur

An oldie but a goody. Climb up the hill of Montmartre in the north of the city (or cheat and grab a funicular) to witness a sweeping panoramic view across the rooftops of Paris. It’s particularly great on a summer’s night when street entertainers and wine-drinkers fill the steps.

A rainy day at the Sacré Coeur Credit: GETTY

10. Le Rooftop at The Peninsula

Situated on the sixth and last floor of the ultra-luxe Peninsula hotel in the smart 16th arrondissement, this chic terrace bar, decorated in crisp neutrals, is nestled right in the zinc roofs - and there’s a splendid view of the Eiffel Tower to boot.

(THE TELEGRAPH)